Isn't it funny how the sibling squabbles inspire creative intervention on the part of mom or dad? Parents are constantly called upon to think on their feet and sometimes the results are kind of incredible.
The boys were fighting over some ridiculous toy which one of them wanted to use as something over which he could jump. I mean, really. It was driving me bonkers and somehow, without even thinking what I was doing, I affixed a rectangle of tape on the floor and suggested he jump over that, instead.
The results were instantaneous! Mesmerized by this wondrous new shape on the floor, both kids stopped fighting and started cooperating.
Now I call it THE AMAZING RECTANGLE.
All you have to do is use painter's tape to outline a shape–a rectangle is obviously what we used–on the floor! Who knew indoor fun could be so easy!
Things you can do with a rectangle of tape on the floor:
Jump over it.
Jump in it.
Jump around it. (Hi, downstairs neighbors!)
See how many times you can bounce a ball in it.
Race cars around it.
Race cars through it.
Stack blocks in it.
Use it as a start or finish line.
Ball bouncing was definitely the kids' favorite challenge. We used ping pong balls because they are light weight, have great bounce potential and are unlikely to break anything when the inevitable (you know what I'm talking about!) happens.
MORE: Sibling activities to stop the fighting
What do you think your kids would do with a rectangle of tape on the floor?
P.S. I highly recommend using low-tack painter's tape. You should test it on your floors before use, but I've never has a problem.
For more EASY ideas, check out our giant list of indoor activities for kids, or these tried and true ideas which siblings can do together:
MaryAnne says
Brilliant! We did something similar last year:
http://mamasmiles.com/?p=942
Tricia at Mom is the Only Girl says
Oh how I wish I could think that quickly! I love this idea! I might use it soon! Thanks!
amandab says
What and amazing rectangle that is! Maybe one of those jumping games like you do with elastics? If only I could remember the words ...
Amma says
Chinese jump rope? That's what we called the elastic game growing up in Texas.
Raising a Happy Child says
I have to try it out!
•´.¸¸.•¨¯`♥.Trish.♥´¯¨•.¸¸.´• says
What a great idea.
It is something like thinking inside and outside the square, you could take this game anywhere with you ;).
aly in va says
after my kids behavior today- they'd fight in it!
Sarah Slaven says
That's funny I hope your neighbours forgave you.
Christie - Childhood 101 says
A 'sit down and put your shoes on' rectangle might work in our house?